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Perfect Snow and Perfect Kids at Sunday RiverBy Denise A. ManningThe Sunday River Ski Area in Bethel, Maine boasts that it has the most consistent and well groomed snow in the East. But at some point on the long trek to this destination resort, you undoubtedly ask yourself, is it really worth the ride? Absolutely! Sunday River delivers on their snow guarantee and has updated their kids’ ski school registration process to get you out on the hill sooner. When you arrive at Sunday River, don’t be discouraged if the parking lot and lodge are packed. You will still be able to find a lift with a short line and a trail with only a few other skiers on it. Even on a good day, you wouldn’t be able to get to all 128 trails that sprawl across eight mountain peaks. This extensive acreage easily absorbs enormous amounts of people and provides steep slopes, glades, and moguls for the thrill seekers, manageable challenges for the intermediates, and dedicated beginner areas for those just learning. The recent additions of a “super pipe” with 18 foot walls, a mini pipe, and several terrain parks round out the offerings. Regardless of snowfall, Sunday River always has plenty of snow. They are snowmaking experts and can create the type and amount of snow they want, wherever they want it. Sunday River enjoys a long tradition of dependable conditions.
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This season, the mountain has found a way to improve on an
already great program. “Perfect Kids” has been teaching children to ski and ride
for almost two decades. In the past, it was a daunting task to stand in all the
necessary lines to get your child a ticket, rentals, and a spot in a class. The
new system offers a streamlined solution. You simply make your reservation and
then present yourself and your child at the Children’s Center.
Once you have
completed the registration process and paid for the services you need, your
child puts on a vest that has an identifying number card attached. You alone
hold the “claim ticket” with the corresponding number. Older kids have the
number written on their lift ticket. This process ensures that no one else can
walk away with your child. The staff takes care of the rest. No hassle, no
stress, no problem. I can’t think of anyone who would prefer to schlep her child
from line to line in a crowded place. During peak times, make a reservation. On
their busiest days, over 275 children between the ages of 6 and 14 are on the
mountain and having fun. The coaches are well trained, responsible and friendly.
When you pick up your child at the end of the day, your child’s coach will brief
you on the successes of the day.
Where to stay on the mountain
Sunday River is a mere 7 miles from the rural New England
village of Bethel, ME. If staying on the mountain doesn’t appeal to you, there
are two excellent options in town. The Sudbury Inn is a delightful
alternative. Bill and Nancy White, the keepers of the inn, and their staff are
friendly and helpful. A stay in any of the inn’s well-appointed rooms is sure to
sooth your weary soul, and muscles, after a day on the slopes. The Bethel Inn
is the other good in-town possibility. They have traditional hotel rooms as well
as condos to accommodate even the largest groups. Couples and families find
their outdoor heated pool to be a magical place on a snowy winter night 
The food at each of the base lodge cafeterias is pretty
standard. Recently, they have tried to make things a bit more interesting by
offering interesting sandwich wraps, desserts and freshly brewed Starbucks
coffee. North Peak Lodge is known for its freshly baked cinnamon rolls.
They make them all morning so the chance of having one right out of the oven is
pretty good. The trick is to find a place you like and make your plans
accordingly. Sliders is located over in the Jordan Grand Hotel and is a
great spot to stop for a leisurely bite to eat. Order a large plate of nachos
while enjoy a sweeping view of Lollapolooza, one of the most popular trails out
in Jordan Bowl.
Surprisingly, there is public transportation in Bethel.
The Mountain Explorer, a free shuttle service subsidized by the state, makes
numerous trips from town to the mountain and back throughout the day. Depending
on time of day, they also stop at various places along the way. There is a
published schedule and the drivers stick to it with Swiss precision. Riding
The Explorer is a convenient and easy way to get around. Why worry about
driving when you can let someone else transport you to the mountain or home from
the restaurant? At the mountain, Sunday River offers a trolley service that
transports guests from base lodge to base lodge. It is very handy if you are
staying a distance away from the restaurant or lift of your choice.